In a visionary move towards modernizing public transportation, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari is set to introduce a groundbreaking airborne bus, combining the luxury of airplanes with the accessibility of buses. This innovation is part of the government’s commitment to providing enhanced facilities to the public, and it comes with a promise of affordability and efficiency.
Air Bus: Elevating Travel Experience
The Air Bus, slated to operate on the Delhi-Jaipur route, is not just an ordinary bus; it is a luxury transport option with airplane-like amenities. Transforming the highway into an electric corridor exclusively for buses, this initiative aims to redefine the travel experience. The bus will accommodate up to 100 passengers, offering features such as business class, economy class, and onboard laptop facilities reminiscent of airline services.
Affordable Luxury: Making Air Travel on Wheels Accessible
Passengers on the Air Bus will enjoy additional perks such as tea and breakfast services, mirroring the offerings of flight journeys. Surprisingly, despite these elevated features, the fare for these electric buses is expected to be 30% cheaper than traditional diesel buses, ensuring accessibility to a broader demographic.
Paving the Way for Aerial Commuting
Beyond the electric highway buses, Gadkari envisions a future with double-decker buses that can operate in the air. This bold step aligns with the government’s push towards electric-powered public transportation, aiming to reduce reliance on traditional fuels and minimize the environmental impact.
Hydrogen Revolution: The Fuel of Tomorrow
Discussing the future of fuel, Gadkari emphasized the potential of hydrogen. The government is actively working on new technology to extract methane from waste and produce hydrogen. The goal is to substantially reduce the cost of fuel, currently priced at Rs 300 per kg, with the ambition to bring the cost of hydrogen below $1 per kg, equivalent to 3-4 liters of diesel.
India’s Transportation Evolution: Benchmarking European Standards
Similar electric highways have been successfully implemented in countries like Germany and Sweden. India’s commitment to building such infrastructure aligns with its vision to elevate its transportation system to meet and exceed European standards, offering citizens a world-class commuting experience.